Tanzania has been urged to strengthen its support for homegrown innovations, as global experience shows that developed countries have advanced significantly by investing heavily in innovation ecosystems.
This call was made by Professor Japhet Kashaigili, Director of Postgraduate Studies, Research, Technology Transfer, and Consultancy at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), during an innovation symposium that brought together students from SUA and Mzumbe University as part of the National Innovation Week celebrations.
Prof. Kashaigili noted that a number of promising innovations particularly in technology are being developed locally, some of which have the potential to assist even smallholder farmers in addressing challenges such as crop destruction by wild animals.
“These innovations are designed to equip young people with practical experience beyond theoretical knowledge. At SUA, our core mission is to ensure that graduates are ready to take their innovations to the next level turning ideas into viable solutions that contribute to national development and solve real societal challenges,” said Prof. Kashaigili.
He emphasized that the symposium was focused on nurturing innovation that leads to impactful discoveries.
According to him, many student innovations if supported and refined could help transform lives not only in Tanzania but also globally, by penetrating competitive markets.
“We need to identify and support innovations across key sectors such as industry, agriculture, and technology. These innovations can bring significant benefits to our communities but achieving this requires strong collaboration with the private sector, which remains a key pillar of sustainable development,” he added.
Speaking during the opening of the symposium, SUA’s Deputy Vice Chancellor for Planning, Finance, and Administration, Professor Amandusi Mhahilwa, urged scholars to remain open to learning new things, work collaboratively, and develop the psychological readiness needed to address the challenges facing their communities.
Prof. Mhahilwa explained that SUA’s academic structure prioritizes hands-on learning, especially in students’ third, fourth, and fifth years, where they are required to undertake practical projects that help bridge the gap between theory and practice.
“Our goal is to inspire students to continue working on their projects even after graduation. Today, we are showcasing success stories of former students who have turned their ideas into real ventures. What we stress is the need for a spirit of innovation and teamwork because in the real world, they’ll need to work with others. Unfortunately, many struggle with self-confidence,” he said.
He added that part of university education involves psychological preparation equipping graduates with leadership skills and the resilience needed to tackle the complex problems affecting society.
Student Asma Soud shared her experience, saying she had learned the importance of value addition before taking products to market.
She encouraged fellow youth to avoid staying idle and instead use their talents and the opportunities available to create and innovate.
Another student, Jesca John, said youth-led innovations could become a powerful tool for economic empowerment, helping reduce youth unemployment and promoting self-reliance rather than dependence on government or private-sector jobs.